Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad says cooperation with the United States in oil and gas is “possible,” as indirect nuclear talks between the two sides wrapped up a second round in Geneva.
“It is not clear whether oil and gas cooperation between Tehran and Washington will actually happen,” he said. “But everything is possible.”
Earlier, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Diplomacy, Hamid Ghanbari, said energy cooperation was included in recent talks held in Oman and Switzerland. Speaking at the Iranian Chamber of Commerce, he explained that discussions covered shared oil and gas fields, mineral investments, and even aircraft purchases.
The United States and Iran have not had formal diplomatic relations since 1980. Over the years, US sanctions have heavily restricted Iran’s energy sector, making direct cooperation in oil and gas extremely difficult.
Since returning to office, US President Donald Trump has stepped up the “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran’s oil exports. His administration has targeted what it calls Iran’s “shadow fleet” — ships accused of helping Tehran bypass sanctions — and has warned international buyers of possible penalties.
For now, any real cooperation remains uncertain. But the fact that energy ties are even being discussed marks a noticeable shift in tone between the two longtime rivals.
